You’ve seen creators making money with UGC — filming videos from their phones, without huge followings or fancy equipment.
But once you dive in, it can feel overwhelming:
“What do brands actually want?”
“How do I make my videos stand out?”
“Why haven’t I gotten a paid deal yet?”
If you’re asking those questions — this post is for you.
Here are 7 powerful UGC tips that will help you create better content, build your confidence, and book more brand deals.
1. Start With a Strong Hook (The First 3 Seconds Matter Most)
UGC is made for short-form platforms like TikTok and Reels — which means attention spans are SHORT. If you don’t hook someone in the first 3 seconds, they’ll scroll.
Examples of strong hooks:
“I can’t believe this actually worked…”
“POV: You’re tired of wasting money on skincare.”
“This changed the way I start my mornings.”
Why it works:
Hooks spark curiosity. They tell the viewer, “This is worth watching.”
Try this:
Film 2–3 different hooks for every video and test which one feels the most natural and scroll-stopping.
2. Use Natural Lighting (And Clean Backgrounds)
Good UGC doesn’t mean expensive equipment — but it does mean clear, clean visuals. Brands want content that looks professional, not messy.
Lighting tips:
Face a window when filming during the day.
Avoid harsh overhead lighting (it creates shadows).
Use a soft ring light if filming in the evening.
Background tips:
Declutter before filming.
Neutral walls, cozy rooms, or clean countertops work great.
Don’t let random laundry steal the spotlight 😅
3. Focus on One Clear Message Per Video
Many new creators try to cram too much into one piece of content. Instead, focus on ONE story or benefit per video.
Example:
Instead of saying: “This tea is organic, helps with sleep, boosts immunity, and tastes great...”
Just say:
“I’ve been sleeping better every night since I started drinking this tea.”
📌 Simplicity = clarity. And clarity = conversions.
4. Speak Like a Human, Not a Commercial
UGC works because it feels real. Don’t overthink your script. Don’t try to sound like a salesperson. Just imagine you’re talking to your best friend.
Instead of:
“This revolutionary product is the best I’ve ever used.”
Try:
“Okay, I was skeptical at first... but I actually love this.”
Use filler words, casual tone, and your normal voice. That’s what brands (and viewers!) want.
5. Add Text Overlays to Reinforce Your Message
On-screen text helps grab attention AND improves accessibility.
Use it to highlight:
Your hook
Key benefits
Steps or ingredients
A final CTA (call to action)
📲 Bonus: Brands love text overlays because it helps their ad message land faster.
Just don’t overdo it — keep it clean and easy to read.
6. Always Shoot in Vertical Format
Almost all UGC should be filmed vertically (9:16).
This fits TikTok, Reels, YouTube Shorts, Pinterest, and more.
Avoid: Filming sideways, square format, or zooming in/out too much.
Pro tip: Keep important visuals/text centered so they don’t get cut off by platform UI.
7. Create with Specific Niches in Mind
Brands want creators who “get” their audience. So, the more focused your content is, the more trust you build.
Pick 1–2 niches and start building content around them. For example:
Wellness – teas, supplements, skincare
Parenting – toys, baby products, home tools
Tech – gadgets, apps, smart home items
🎯 Why this matters:
When you pitch brands in those niches, they’ll SEE that you understand their vibe and audience.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a perfect camera, viral video, or big following to succeed with UGC.
You just need to create with intention, focus on storytelling, and practice consistently.
Inside The Ultimate UGC Course, I walk you through these strategies step-by-step — plus give you templates, outreach scripts, and real client examples to land your first deals.
✨ You’re closer than you think. Keep creating. Keep learning. Keep going.
You’ve got this!
